In her contribution to the new book The Future of Think Tanks and Policy Advice in the United States, Jane Harman outlines the shifting dynamics that think tanks must grapple with. Harman affirms the key role of think tanks in society at-large, explaining that “at the core, our role is to inform and educate.” This fascinating book, edited by James McGann, examines the future of America’s think tank ecosystem as a workplace, a research hub and a guiding light for policy ideas.
In her chapter, Harman writes that the Wilson Center’s four key issues that are “at the top of policymakers’ dockets: digital threats and opportunities, great power competition, rule of law, and Arctic cooperation” — have been met by a fifth pressing issue: COVID-19. The pandemic has forced the Wilson Center’s programming to adapt and transform, causing scholars to pivot their attention to new developments and new publication formats to flourish.
While COVID-19 has disrupted the vibrant in-person environment the Wilson Center prides itself on, it has simultaneously brought its experts, and the work of its institutes, closer together. In line with think tank tradition, Harman effectively outlines the persistent efforts of the Wilson Center and presents actionable ideas to ensure a lasting future for the think tank mission.
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